2024/2025 AgCareers.com Agriculture and Food Career Guide - U.S. Edition

29 AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE FOOD SAFETY AND QUALITY ASSURANCE TECHNOLOGIES Technology plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety and quality throughout the processing chain. Professionals are adopting advanced technologies such as spectroscopy, DNA sequencing, and rapid testing methods to detect contaminants, allergens, and pathogens in food products. They are also upskilling in food safety regulations and quality management systems to ensure compliance with industry standards. SUSTAINABLE PROCESSING PRACTICES Technology is driving innovation in sustainable processing practices, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and water conservation. Professionals are learning about renewable energy systems, waste recovery technologies, and water recycling methods to minimize environmental impact. They may also need to acquire knowledge in sustainable sourcing and green certifications to meet consumer demands for eco-friendly products. Hear from Rebecca on episode 76 of the FoodGrads podcast. She talks about her role as Chief Marketing Officer with Terra Bioindustries. This Canadian startup helps create a more circular economy with existing supply chains. Terra Bioindustries makes highly sustainable products for the food, fermentation, and chemical waste industries while lowering food waste. PACKAGING TECHNOLOGIES Advances in packaging technologies, such as intelligent packaging, active packaging, and barrier materials, are transforming how food and beverage products are packaged and preserved. Professionals in packaging engineering and design are learning to incorporate these technologies to enhance product shelf-life, freshness, and safety. They are also upskilling in sustainable packaging solutions to reduce plastic waste and environmental footprint. REGULATORY COMPLIANCE & FOOD SAFETY STANDARDS As technology evolves, so do regulatory requirements and food safety standards. Food and beverage processing professionals must stay updated on the latest regulations and standards regarding food safety, labeling, and sanitation. Continuous learning and professional development are essential to ensure compliance with changing regulatory landscapes. Overall, technology is revolutionizing food and beverage processing careers, requiring professionals to adapt, upskill, and engage in continuous learning to thrive in this dynamic industry. Embracing technological advancements and staying ahead of the curve is critical to success in this rapidly evolving field. Be sure to check out all the episodes of the FoodGrads Podcast to learn about the passionate people in the food & beverage industry, why they chose their career path, and be inspired by their unique stories. Due to technological advancements and innovation, there has never been a more exciting time to join the food and beverage industry! AG If you’re a student and you want to help save the world but don’t know how, then reach out to that innovation hub, reach out to the accelerator platform for your city or your university, and say, “Hey, I’m interested in these areas. I have this background or I have these skills. I would love to see if there’s a business, I could maybe help. - Rebecca Bradley Chief Marketing Officer, Terra Bioindustries “

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